Anti- and Pro-Gun Advocates in Connecticut Continue Their Fight

Last year's effort was bipartisan. At this event, only Democratic leaders came.

Gun control advocates rallied with Democratic leaders at the capitol Thursday, announcing a new effort to support lawmakers who passed last year's gun measures. The meeting came as pro-gun activists plan a rally of their own.

Ron Pinciaro is the head of Connecticut Against Gun Violence. One year after the signing of the sweeping new gun laws in the state, he and others came to the capitol to say they still support them -- and the people who passed them.

"For their work," he said, "many of our lawmakers have been severely attacked. But we are here to pledge that we are with them."

Pinciaro was joined by groups like the Newtown Action Alliance, Mom's Demand Action, United Physicians of Newtown, and Mothers United Against Violence.

"The coalition of groups here today and those represented in your packets will work together, each in their unique way, using social media, billboards, and legislator support activities," Pinciaro said. "The purpose will be to inform the public that the important public safety reforms are being threatened because gun rights activists will not accept laws enacted by the will of the people and the constitutional process in Connecticut."

Gov. Dannel Malloy waits to speak to gun control advocates.

Credit Jeff Cohen / WNPR

Last year's effort was bipartisan, with both Democratic and Republican leaders supporting the new gun laws. At this event, only Democratic leaders came.

On Saturday, the Connecticut Citizens Defense League will rally at the state capitol to mark the anniversary of the bill's signing. The pro-gun rights organization is still hoping to see the law either overturned in federal court or repealed.